Estimator, Construction, Civil Engineering

Job Summary

The Estimator II is responsible for preparing detailed and accurate cost estimates for larger and more complex construction projects. This role manages the preparation and submission of bids and proposals while also supporting procurement and project turnover activities for awarded work. The Estimator II works closely with project managers, superintendents, subcontractors, suppliers, and ownership to ensure estimates are complete, competitive, and aligned with operational execution.

Estimator II is expected to develop a strong understanding of project risks, constructability concerns, scheduling impacts, and procurement strategy while contributing to the continued improvement of estimating processes and databases.

Estimator II operates with moderate supervision and is expected to independently manage most aspects of the estimating process for assigned projects. This role takes ownership of estimates for more complex projects and contributes to pricing strategy, risk evaluation, and procurement decisions. Estimator II collaborates regularly with estimating leadership and operations teams while exercising independent judgment regarding scope analysis, subcontractor coordination, and estimate development.

• Prepare detailed estimates and bid proposals for mid‑sized to large and complex construction projects.
• Prepare detailed self‑perform estimates including:
  • Concrete
  • Carpentry
  • Sitework
  • Temporary conditions
  • General trades as applicable
• Review drawings, specifications, geotechnical reports, and supplemental documentation to fully understand project scope, risks, sequencing, and constructability requirements.
• Conduct detailed quantity takeoffs and pricing analysis.
• Develop thoughtful Requests for Information (RFIs) to clarify scope gaps, conflicts, coordination issues, and potential cost exposures.
• Solicit, review, analyze, and level subcontractor and supplier quotations for completeness, qualifications, exclusions, and pricing accuracy.
• Coordinate with project managers, superintendents, and field personnel to validate production assumptions, site logistics, scheduling concerns, and means and methods.
• Participate in bid reviews, estimate reviews, scope meetings, procurement meetings, and project turnover discussions.
• Lead portions of the procurement process including:
  • Scope development
  • Bid package preparation
  • Scope review meetings
  • Recommendation of subcontractor awards
  • Final scope alignment
• Maintain and develop estimating databases, historical cost information, production rates, and conceptual pricing tools.
• Support conceptual budgeting, value engineering, and preconstruction services efforts.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, consultants, and industry partners.
• Mentor Junior Estimators and Estimator I personnel by providing guidance related to takeoffs, scope review, pricing analysis, and estimating processes.
• Maintain awareness of market conditions, subcontractor capacity, labor trends, and material pricing fluctuations.

• Experience preparing estimates for commercial, institutional, multifamily, and/or public construction projects.
• Strong understanding of construction means and methods, sequencing, and procurement practices.
• Ability to interpret architectural, structural, civil, and MEP drawings and specifications.
• Experience with estimating software, bid solicitation products, and quantity takeoff platforms. Colantonio uses Sage, Procore, and ZZ Take‑off.
• Strong organizational, analytical, communication, and time management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines simultaneously.
• Experience reviewing subcontractor scopes and developing procurement strategies.
• Understanding of bid leveling, value engineering, and cost analysis.